Plan a Visit

Step into Campustown’s cultural corridor, Green Street. Lined with over 20 restaurants, cafés, and dessert spots, it’s where students and locals eat, catch up with friends, and soak in the energy of the Illinois experience. From global flavors to late-night classics, there’s something for every craving.

If you're looking to grab a bite without leaving campus, Illini Union offers a variety of options, from coffee shops to casual dining and quick bites. It's the perfect place to recharge between tours or events. 

Step off campus and into Champaign-Urbana’s diverse food scene, check out more dining options.

The Illini Union Hotel sits in the heart of campus, offering beautiful views of the Main Quad, free parking, and walkable access to dining, shopping, and student events. Just a short walk from Engineering Hall, the hotel is located in a historic 1941 building that blends timeless charm and campus tradition. All proceeds directly support student programs.
To book a room, visit their website or call (217) 333- 1241.

Modern, sleek, and just a short walk from Memorial Stadium and the State Farm Center, the I Hotel blends upscale amenities with campus convenience. Located in the heart of The Research Park, it’s a popular pick for campus visitors, with easy access to events, MTD buses, and local favorites. To book a room, visit their website or call (217) 819-5000

Looking for more options nearby? Explore additional hotels and motels in the Champaign-Urbana area. 

• A permit is required to park in University Parking Lots and Garages from 6 a.m. - 5 p.m. during weekdays, unless otherwise marked.
• Most university lots are open to park without a permit from 5 p.m. - 2 a.m. (restrictions are specified on signs at lot entrances)
• Housing lots and 24-hour lots are restricted at all times
• 24-hour rental spaces and handicap spaces are enforced at all times

The MTD bus system makes it easy to get around campus and the surrounding community without a car. Buses run frequently, with many routes operating every 10 minutes, even during spring, summer, and winter breaks. Stops are conveniently located near classroom buildings and residence halls.

Riding is free for University of Illinois students, faculty, and staff with an iCard, and just $1 per ride for visitors (payable with coins, $1 bills, or via the Token Transit app).

Pro tip: Planning to use the bus during your visit? Download real-time tracking apps like Transit or My Bus Helper: MTD to stay updated.

Download the apps using the links below:

• Transit app for Android
• Transit for iOS (App Store)
• My Bus Helper: MTD for iOS (App Store)

View Campus Map

If you’ve signed up for a campus tour or an academic session with Grainger Engineering, be sure to check out what else is happening while you’re here. Attending multiple programs can give you a broader look at campus life, explore other majors you might be curious about, and help you feel more confident in your decision.

Haven’t seen the rest of campus? Take a self-guided walking tour or a driving tour for a scenic drive around the university. You can also explore buildings tied to your major for a closer look at where you might be spending time,  view the campus map.

Many Grainger Engineering students live in residence halls that offer easy access to the Engineering campus. If you’re taking a campus tour, you’ll see Illinois Street Residence Halls (ISR), which are centrally located and near several engineering buildings. Walk-in University Housing tours are available weekdays from 1–4 p.m. (excluding holidays and university breaks). You can also contact Private Certified Housing facilities directly to schedule a tour.

While proximity can be helpful, especially during your first year, there are many options to choose from, and all residence halls are connected to campus via the MTD bus system. Some students prioritize location, while others value amenities, social life, or room layout. Popular residence halls among engineering students include:

• ISR (Townsend & Wardall) – centrally located near labs and lecture halls
• Hendrick House – Private Certified Housing known for being close to Grainger Engineering
• Newman Hall – another option near the Engineering Quad
• Bousfield, Busey-Evans, LAR, FAR, PAR – located further south but well-connected by bus

We encourage you to tour a few options and talk with current students to get a sense of what might suit you best.

Looking to unwind after your visit or extend your stay? From local eats and live music to parks, art, and shopping, there’s plenty to discover in CU. Whether you're here for a day or the weekend, make time to explore what makes this community one of a kind.

Check out Experience Champaign-Urbana for more!

The best way to get to know what the community feels like at Illinois as an engineering major is by talking to current students and academic advisors.

• Visit an Engineering Student Group office weekdays between 2 – 5 PM.
  • Engineering Hall 1st floor – 1308 W. Green Street Urbana 
  • Siebel Center for Computer Science 1st floor - 201 N. Goodwin Ave. Urbana
• Meet with a Grainger Engineering Department: Schedule an appointment with any of our academic units that are not offering programming on your visit day.
• Consider filling out our College Visit Guide for Illinois and other schools you visit to easily compare them later on.